Ghanaian students studying abroad on government scholarships are reportedly resorting to desperate means like selling sperm to make ends meet due to severe financial neglect by the government.
The students, facing unpaid stipends and tuition fees, have reached out to government officials for help.
Meanwhile, the group have highlighted their dire situation in an open letter authored by Pius Apprey from the University of Kent to the President, Akufo-Addo.
Mr. Apprey, in his letter, details the government’s failure to provide promised tuition coverage and monthly stipends, leaving many students struggling with unpaid balances.
The students have reportedly only received stipends for nine out of the 37 months abroad. The financial shortfall has led to evictions, legal troubles, academic withdrawals, and desperate measures for survival, including selling sperm for male students and seeking financial support through relationships for female students.
Despite the government’s recent release of GHȼ50 million to address the issue, Apprey argues that it is insufficient. The funds would only cover tuition for about 127 students, leaving over 650 still unsupported. Moreover, the issue of unpaid stipends remains unresolved.
Mr. Apprey’s letter calls for greater equity and transparency in fund distribution and urges President Akufo-Addo to release additional funds to cover all outstanding payments. The letter concludes with a plea for immediate action to prevent further hardship for Ghanaian students abroad.
